Basilica

Basilica

The basilica is the centre of the abbey in a geographical as well as a spritual sense.

Latticework

The circular arc leading to the Chapel of the Holy Blood is filled out by a beautifully adorned latticework finished in 1716 by the Tyrolean metalsmith Bernhard Bachnetzer. None of the 80 roses, which crown the beauty of this remarkable work, is exactly like another. Bachnetzer is said to have worked on the lattice for over six years.

The Princes’ Tomb

The tomb of some of the most important Tyrolean rulers is an undercroft situated opposite the entrance. It is predominated by an impressive crucifixion group made in the 17th century by Andreas Thamasch. Down below you will find gilded sculptures of the entombed rulers.

High Altar

The high altar, situated at the far end of the church is the most famous piece of art in the abbey. It represents the baroque tradition of putting a Tree of Life beyond the altar and was made by Bartelmä Stein in the 17th century.

The 84 gilded figurines are harmonically arranged on a sky blue backdrop 19 metres tall, with a large Madonna in the centre and scenes from the lives of Christ and St. Mary on the top.

Among the other impressive attractions are the delicately painted ceiling frescos and stuccowork, as well as the wooden choir stalls and ancient organ.